CBS2/KCAL9 Team Up With Red Cross To Raise Funds For Typhoon Victims

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — CBS2 and KCAL9 are teaming up with the Red Cross to raise funds for victims of Typhoon Haiyan.

The sister stations held a telethon Wednesday to assist the American Red Cross Los Angeles region in its fundraising efforts.

The money raised will provide a direct injection of funds into the local Philippine Red Cross Society so that it can purchase bulk supplies and materials to help support disaster victims, according to a representative of the Los Angeles chapter of the Red Cross.

With record wind gusts of 190 mph, the typhoon Friday ripped roofs from houses and children from their parents. Filipino President Benigno Aquino estimated the death toll Tuesday at 2,500.

U.S. Marines have already been sent to the Philippines. So far the International Red Cross has only asked for four American Red Cross specialists: two for disaster assessment and two specializing in telecommunications, who will be transporting satellite equipment.

The American Red Cross can assist in tracing loved ones.

People looking for a missing family member are cautioned to remember many phone lines are down and communication is challenging. The American Red Cross has activated its Restoring Family Links International Disaster Inquiries for those affected.